How to Change Money in Germany [2025 Guide] 💶🇩🇪
If you’re visiting or living in Germany in 2025, knowing how to change money in Germany can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re exchanging cash, withdrawing euros, or converting currency digitally, it’s important to choose the right method to get the best exchange rates and avoid high fees.
This guide explains where and how to exchange money in Germany, current rules, costs, and tips for the best deals.
📌 Quick Summary Table: Money Exchange in Germany (2025)
| Method | Where to Do It | Best For | Fees | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Currency Exchange Offices | Airports, train stations, city centers | Tourists needing cash quickly | 3–10% | Compare rates before exchanging |
| ATMs (Bank Cash Machines) | Banks, city streets | Fast euro withdrawals with debit/credit card | Bank-dependent | Use bank ATMs, avoid Euronet fees |
| Bank Currency Exchange | Local banks & Sparkasse | Secure transactions | ~1–3% | Bring ID/passport |
| Post Office (Deutsche Post) | Larger branches | Travelers sending/exchanging money | Varies | May take 1–2 days |
| Online Currency Exchange Apps | Wise, Revolut, CurrencyFair | Best rates, digital transfers | Low | Great for sending/receiving |
| Prepaid Travel Cards | Online or bank-issued | Frequent travelers | Low to medium | Lock in rates in advance |
🏦 1. Understanding Currency in Germany
- Official currency: Euro (€)
- Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500
- Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, €1, €2
💡 Tip: Many shops in Germany prefer cash payments, especially smaller businesses, bakeries, and markets.
📍 2. Where to Change Money in Germany
A. Currency Exchange Offices
- Located at airports, train stations, and city centers
- Offer fast service but rates are often less favorable
- Ideal for small amounts in emergencies
B. Bank Branches
- Banks like Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, Commerzbank offer money exchange
- Requires valid ID or passport
- Safer and often with better rates than airports
C. ATMs (Cash Machines)
- Convenient and widely available
- Best to use your bank’s partner network to avoid extra fees
- Avoid Euronet ATMs (high withdrawal fees)
D. Online Money Exchange Apps
- Platforms like Wise, Revolut, CurrencyFair offer real exchange rates
- Useful for international transfers and card payments
- Low fees and fast processing
📝 3. Step-by-Step: How to Change Money in Germany
- Decide how much you need in cash vs. card payments
- Check current EUR exchange rates online before exchanging
- Choose your method: bank, ATM, exchange office, or app
- Bring necessary documents (ID/passport if exchanging at a bank)
- Exchange or withdraw your euros
- Keep receipts for record and potential refunds
💰 4. Costs & Fees for Changing Money in Germany (2025)
- Bank exchange: ~1–3% fee
- Exchange office: 3–10% fee or poor rates
- ATM withdrawals: Bank-dependent, €0–€5 per withdrawal
- Online transfers: ~0.35–1% with fintech apps
📋 5. Tips for Getting the Best Exchange Rates in Germany
- Avoid airport exchanges unless urgent
- Use ATMs inside banks for safety and better rates
- Check mid-market rates on sites like XE.com or Google before exchanging
- Consider online transfers for large amounts
- Withdraw larger amounts at once to reduce per-transaction fees
🚫 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exchanging large sums at airports → worst rates
- Using Euronet ATMs → high hidden fees
- Forgetting to check rates before exchanging
- Carrying too much cash without safety measures
❓ FAQs
Q1: What is the best way to change money in Germany?
Using a local bank or fintech app like Wise or Revolut usually offers the best exchange rates and lowest fees compared to airport or street exchange offices.
Q2: Can I change money at the airport in Germany?
Yes, but airport exchange rates are usually less favorable and fees are higher. It’s better to use ATMs or city banks.
Q3: Do I need ID to change money in Germany?
Yes, for bank exchanges you typically need a valid passport or national ID card. ATMs and apps don’t require additional ID.
Q4: Is it cheaper to withdraw euros or exchange cash in Germany?
Withdrawing euros from a local bank ATM with a low-fee card is often cheaper than cash exchanges at airport or tourist areas.
Q5: Can I use USD or GBP in Germany?
No, Germany only accepts euros. You must exchange your foreign currency or use a card that converts automatically.